Dictionary

slang-whanger en · NOUN

Etymology

From slang and whang (“to beat”) + -er.

Meanings

1. (colloquial, dated) One who uses abusive slang; a ranting partisan.
   • If, in addition to our own amusements, we have, as we jogged carelessly laughing along, brushed away one tear of dejection and called forth a smile in its place — if we have brightened the pale countenance of a single child of sorrow — we shall feel almost as much joy and rejoicing as a slang-whanger does when he bathes his pen in the heart's blood of a patron and benefactor; or sacrifices an illustrious victim on the altar of party animosity. 1807 August 14, Washington Irving, “Salmagundi, no. XIII”, in The Complete Works of Washington Irving, M. S. Schmerler, published 1835, page 65:
2. (rare) One who verbally attacks others; normally a politician or editor.

Forms